How does exercise affect brain function and mental health?
Exercise promotes the release of neurotrophic factors that stimulate the growth of blood vessels and blood flow to the brain. Increased brain perfusion induces neurogenesis and boosts neuroplasticity – the formation and refinement of synapses between neurons.
Exercise improves mood. It has protective effects against the development of mental health issues, and also decreases anxiety and depressive symptoms in people suffering from mental health disorders.
People who exercise experience a sense of belonging and purpose, and significantly higher rates of motivation and flow – a rewarding psychological state. Some of these effects are linked to the social interactions and bonding that exercise unlocks.
Exercise is strongly associated with improved sleep quality and leads to improvement in cognition, especially processing speed, memory, and executive function.